News for '-akhadas'

RSS seeks social unity, not power or pressure politics: Bhagwat

RSS seeks social unity, not power or pressure politics: Bhagwat

Rediff.com7 Feb 2026

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat stated that the Sangh's objective is to unite society, not to seek power or become a pressure group. He emphasized that the RSS is not against anyone and aims to support positive efforts in the country.

Mamta Kulkarni says Dawood not terrorist, clarifies later

Mamta Kulkarni says Dawood not terrorist, clarifies later

Rediff.com30 Oct 2025

Actress-turned-seer Mamta Kulkarni has found herself at the centre of controversy following her recent remarks that underworld don Dawood Ibrahim 'is not a terrorist'.

MNS, NCP leader oppose Tapovan tree-felling for Nashik Kumbh Mela

MNS, NCP leader oppose Tapovan tree-felling for Nashik Kumbh Mela

Rediff.com30 Nov 2025

MNS chief Raj Thackeray has voiced strong opposition to the cutting of trees for the construction of a 'Sadhu Gram' in Nashik ahead of the Kumbh Mela, urging the government to reconsider the decision. Actor Sayaji Shinde has also joined the protest, threatening opposition if the government proceeds with the tree removal.

Kashmir cut off from rest of India; Yamuna threatens Delhi

Kashmir cut off from rest of India; Yamuna threatens Delhi

Rediff.com4 Sep 2025

Incessant rains and flooding have caused widespread disruption in northern India, with states like Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Punjab, and Jammu and Kashmir facing landslides, road closures, and displacement. Rescue efforts are underway as authorities grapple with the aftermath of the deluge.

Delhi on alert as Yamuna breaches danger mark; cremation ghats shut

Delhi on alert as Yamuna breaches danger mark; cremation ghats shut

Rediff.com4 Sep 2025

Rising Yamuna River levels flood low-lying areas of Delhi, displacing residents and disrupting businesses. Families struggle with loss of homes and livelihoods.

Mamta Kulkarni Gets Into Trouble Again

Mamta Kulkarni Gets Into Trouble Again

Rediff.com31 Jan 2025

Rishi Ajay Das, the founder of Kinnar Akhada, has expelled both Mamta Kulkarni and Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Lakshmi Narayan Tripathi from the Akhada.

Dates set for Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2026

Dates set for Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2026

Rediff.com1 Jun 2025

The flag will be taken down on July 24, 2028, which will mark the conclusion of the Simhastha Kumbh Mela, which is held once in 12 years.

Mamta Kulkarni to continue as Kinnar Akhara's 'mahamandleshwar'

Mamta Kulkarni to continue as Kinnar Akhara's 'mahamandleshwar'

Rediff.com14 Feb 2025

Mamta Kulkarni, a former Bollywood actress, will continue as the 'mahamandleshawar' of the Kinnar Akhara, a monastic institution for transgender people, after her resignation from the post was not accepted. Kulkarni had announced her resignation in a video on February 10, but the Akhara's 'acharya mahamandleshawar' Laxmi Narayan Tripathi confirmed that she would remain in her role.

'Society Knows Mamta Kulkarni's Past'

'Society Knows Mamta Kulkarni's Past'

Rediff.com27 Jan 2025

'Suddenly, she arrives in India, participates in the Maha Kumbh and is given the position of Mahamandleshwar.' 'This needs investigation.'

Doping scandal rocks wrestling: 5 minors, 1 Olympian face ban

Doping scandal rocks wrestling: 5 minors, 1 Olympian face ban

Rediff.com23 Jul 2025

A look at NADA's list of suspended athletes reveals that wrestling has the second most dope offenders among all sporting disciplines in India.

Maha Kumbh Sees First Royal Entry

Maha Kumbh Sees First Royal Entry

Rediff.com2 Jan 2025

On Wednesday, January 1, 2025, seers of the Sri Panchayati Atal Akhada made a first 'Royal Entry' -- also called Chavni Pravesh -- with a religious procession for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, at the Sangam in Prayagraj.

Kumbh virtually ends as key akhadas pull out

Kumbh virtually ends as key akhadas pull out

Rediff.com19 Apr 2021

Most of the devotees have already left and the akhadas have been winding up their camps one after another.

Panchayati Mahanirvani Akhara Arrives For Kumbh Mela

Panchayati Mahanirvani Akhara Arrives For Kumbh Mela

Rediff.com3 Jan 2025

Seers from the Shri Panchayati Mahanirvani Akhara made their 'Royal Entry' -- also called Chavni Pravesh -- for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj

Seers seek apology from Niranjani Akhada for announcing 'end' of Kumbh

Seers seek apology from Niranjani Akhada for announcing 'end' of Kumbh

Rediff.com16 Apr 2021

Nirvani Ani Akhada president Mahant Dharmdas said that only the mela officer or the chief minister has the right to announce the "end of the Kumbh Mela".

Cylinder blast triggers fire at Maha Kumbh; 18 tents gutted, no casualty

Cylinder blast triggers fire at Maha Kumbh; 18 tents gutted, no casualty

Rediff.com19 Jan 2025

A fire broke out at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India, on Sunday, engulfing 18 tents in Sector 19. The blaze, which started around 4 pm, was caused by an LPG cylinder explosion. No casualties were reported, and the fire was brought under control within an hour. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who was in Prayagraj to review preparations ahead of Mauni Amawasya, visited the site and instructed authorities to take measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Among The Faithful

Among The Faithful

Rediff.com10 Mar 2025

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is more than just the largest gathering of humanity. It is a testament to faith and devotion.

When We Went To The Kumbh Mela...

When We Went To The Kumbh Mela...

Rediff.com23 Jan 2025

The Kumbh Mela is what it is because of the devotion of millions who make it an experience like no other. It is experiencing the heart and soul of India and the brotherhood of mankind.

A Father-Son's Pilgrimage To The Maha Kumbh

A Father-Son's Pilgrimage To The Maha Kumbh

Rediff.com6 Mar 2025

'As I entered the water at the Sangam, my son held my hand, offering support.' 'It was a powerful moment of connection not only to the Divine but also to my son, reinforcing his role as a pillar of support in my life,' says Arun Khanna.

Acted swiftly to control situation after Kumbh stampede: Adityanath

Acted swiftly to control situation after Kumbh stampede: Adityanath

Rediff.com3 Mar 2025

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted the successful execution of the Maha Kumbh 2025, emphasizing effective crisis management, economic benefits, and the event's role in national unity and infrastructure development. He cited the swift response to a stampede on January 29 and the extensive preparations that ensured a smooth experience for millions of pilgrims.

'The Maha Kumbh Was A Splendid Spiritual Journey'

'The Maha Kumbh Was A Splendid Spiritual Journey'

Rediff.com1 Mar 2025

'When we finally immersed ourselves in the sacred waters, remembering Ganga Maa and Lord Mahadev, we felt a profound sense of accomplishment,' says Satish V.

Seers demand Sanskrit for Urdu words in Hindu context

Seers demand Sanskrit for Urdu words in Hindu context

Rediff.com5 Sep 2024

The development comes after Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, while referring to the Lord Mahakal procession in Ujjain recently, used rajasi sawari instead of shahi sawari.

'Maha Kumbh Will Stay With Me Forever'

'Maha Kumbh Will Stay With Me Forever'

Rediff.com14 Feb 2025

'It was about being part of something so much bigger than myself, witnessing millions coming together in faith, in the hope of something greater,' notes Nidhi Patel.

160,000 tents, 150,000 toilets: Prayagraj gears up for grand Maha Kumbh

160,000 tents, 150,000 toilets: Prayagraj gears up for grand Maha Kumbh

Rediff.com30 Dec 2024

Prayagraj is transforming into a massive temporary city to host the Maha Kumbh, the world's largest religious gathering, expected to draw over 40 crore pilgrims. The preparations include extensive infrastructure development, including 160,000 tents, 150,000 toilets, and a 1,250-km pipeline network. The event, starting on January 13, will culminate on February 26, bringing together millions of devotees for the holy dip at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers.

Maha Kumbh: Officials focus on zero error Basant Panchami Amrit Snan

Maha Kumbh: Officials focus on zero error Basant Panchami Amrit Snan

Rediff.com2 Feb 2025

Ahead of the Basant Panchami Amrit Snan at the Maha Kumbh, top officials are emphasizing the implementation of "zero error" directives to prevent a repeat of the deadly stampede that occurred during a previous snan. The Uttar Pradesh government has deployed senior IAS officers with experience in crowd management and inter-agency coordination to oversee the event.

Shah takes holy dip in Triveni Sangam at Maha Kumbh

Shah takes holy dip in Triveni Sangam at Maha Kumbh

Rediff.com28 Jan 2025

Union Home Minister Amit Shah took a dip at the Triveni Sangam in Mahakumbh Nagar on Monday and described the Maha Kumbh as a unique symbol of the Sanatan culture's philosophy, which is rooted in harmony.

Maha Kumbh: Cleric fears mass conversions of Muslims

Maha Kumbh: Cleric fears mass conversions of Muslims

Rediff.com5 Jan 2025

Ahead of the Maha Kumbh, a senior cleric has written to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressing fears that mass conversions of Muslims will take place during the event, while other community leaders have flagged the alleged demand raised by some Hindu seers' body to keep Muslims out of the mega gathering.

Yogi Goes All Out For Flawless Mahakumbh

Yogi Goes All Out For Flawless Mahakumbh

Rediff.com24 Dec 2024

For Yogi Adityanath the successful management of the fair is a crucial part of building 'Brand UP' and making the state a $1 trillion economy.

Mom learns to cook: Fuelling Reetika's Olympic dreams

Mom learns to cook: Fuelling Reetika's Olympic dreams

Rediff.com20 Jul 2024

Reetika's team ensures that she takes additional small meals to gain strength, and chicken was added to the meal plan, defying the family tradition.

Rahul Wrestles With Bajrang Punia!

Rahul Wrestles With Bajrang Punia!

Rediff.com27 Dec 2023

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi visited an akhada in Haryana's Jhajjar district on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, and met with a group of wrestlers including Olympian Bajrang Punia.

'Please let us compete in Paris, we need mental peace before Olympics'

'Please let us compete in Paris, we need mental peace before Olympics'

Rediff.com17 May 2024

Paris Games quota-winning women wrestlers on Friday pleaded with the national federation not to subject them to selection trials, saying that every single step they take and every little thing they do from now on will have a bearing on India's medal chances at the Olympics.

Wrestling: Aman wants trials scrapped to focus on Olympics

Wrestling: Aman wants trials scrapped to focus on Olympics

Rediff.com15 May 2024

Aman, who is Asian Games bronze medallist and Asian Championships title winner, is confident that he will be in reckoning for a medal at the Games.

How Sarfaraz mastered spin: 500 balls per day, 1600km car journey

How Sarfaraz mastered spin: 500 balls per day, 1600km car journey

Rediff.com19 Feb 2024

Sarfaraz Khan's dominating performance against England's spinners in just his debut Test was no fluke.

WFI Elections: Bajrang, Vinesh making last-ditch effort to prevent Singh from becoming chief

WFI Elections: Bajrang, Vinesh making last-ditch effort to prevent Singh from becoming chief

Rediff.com10 Aug 2023

India's top grapplers Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik are reportedly making a last-ditch effort to ensure Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh's close aide, Sanjay Singh, does not become the Wrestling Federation of India chief.

Yamuna water enters Delhi hospital, 40 patients shifted

Yamuna water enters Delhi hospital, 40 patients shifted

Rediff.com13 Jul 2023

Three ICU patients were among those being shifted from the Sushruta Trauma Centre located opposite Chandiram Akhada in north Delhi, a senior official said.

Meet The Contestants Of Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 11

Meet The Contestants Of Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 11

Rediff.com20 Oct 2023

The 11th season of the dance reality show Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa is all set to air from November 11 on Sony Entertainment Television.

Wrestlers write to PM Modi, IOA: 'Biased, unjustified, against right of equality'

Wrestlers write to PM Modi, IOA: 'Biased, unjustified, against right of equality'

Rediff.com13 Jul 2023

Several women wrestlers wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the IOA and the ad-hoc panel running the WFI, requesting "fair trials" for Asian Games.

Wrestlers hit Hisar streets to protest against 'unfair trial exemption'

Wrestlers hit Hisar streets to protest against 'unfair trial exemption'

Rediff.com19 Jul 2023

Antim Panghal along with several other wrestlers were out on the streets to protest against IOA ad-hoc panel's "unfair" decision to exempt Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat from the Asian Games trials.

Lakhs take dip in Ganga on shahi snan amid rising coronavirus cases

Lakhs take dip in Ganga on shahi snan amid rising coronavirus cases

Rediff.com12 Apr 2021

Masks were not worn by a large proportion and social distancing appeared impossible in an event in which, according to the mela administration, over 17 lakh people had taken a dip in the river in the first few hours up to 10 am.

What Covid? Thousands gather at Kumbh mela

What Covid? Thousands gather at Kumbh mela

Rediff.com14 Apr 2021

Social distancing norms were violated openly by the seers when they and their followers descended the steps at Har ki Pairi to wade into the river.

Antim Panghal wins 53kg trial despite legal battle

Antim Panghal wins 53kg trial despite legal battle

Rediff.com22 Jul 2023

The 19-year-old Panghal put up a dominant show in the 53kg category, winning all her bouts without much fuss.